ICD-10 Code H16.39 – Other interstitial and deep keratitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code H16.39 – Other interstitial and deep keratitis
What it is
H16.39 identifies keratitis affecting the deeper corneal layers, including interstitial inflammation not classified elsewhere. Use it when the record describes a deep corneal inflammatory process and no more specific code applies.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include corneal opacity, stromal inflammation, eye pain, redness, photophobia, and reduced vision.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents other interstitial or deep keratitis without naming a more specific cause or subtype. It may fit cases described as deep corneal inflammation, stromal keratitis, or interstitial keratitis when no alternate code is documented. Check documentation if the etiology is specified.
Do not use for
Do not use H16.39 for superficial keratitis, corneal ulcer, or conjunctivitis. If the chart identifies a specific infectious, autoimmune, or traumatic cause with a different code, use that code instead.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider’s exact corneal diagnosis and whether the inflammation is deep or stromal before assigning H16.39.